Last updated · 15 February 2024

Neurodiversity

Significa acknowledges that conditions such as autism, dyslexia, and other neurodivergences represent natural variations within who we are, rather than shortcomings or disorders. In fact, these differences can introduce unique perspectives and insights, unveiling outcomes that might otherwise remain undiscovered.

Always.

We all learn and produce our work differently - our minds operate differently from each other. Our neurodivergent team memebrs can offer fresh insights and angles compared to those of other team members, they may have preferences whether that be through working methodology, communication styles or coping strategies.

These disabilities are often invisible and complex to diagnose, which is why we want to put an emphasis on the importance of open dialogue about individual differences and requirements.

We're very much at the beginning of our learning. Much of our knowledge to date stems from the valuable resources provided by the Workplace Initiative by Understood.

Dyslexia.

Dyslexia is a specific learning challenge in reading, causing difficulties in accurate and fluent reading, as well as comprehension, spelling, and writing.

Attention-Deficit and Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD).

ADHD, or Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, is characterised by symptoms including inattention, hyperactivity, and/or impulsivity. The symptoms can be one or all of those in order to be diagnosed.

Dyscalculia.

Dyscalculia is often related to difficulty in mathematics, calculations, problem-solving. This condition can relate in daily difficulties with what others may consider basic tasks reliant on foundational mathematical skills, such as cooking, shopping, and time management.

Dysgraphia.

Dysgraphia refers to a specific learning disability in writing, often by struggles with handwriting, typing, spelling, and other aspects of writing, such as grammar.

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) presents as a developmental condition characterised by significant challenges in social interaction and communication. Symptoms encompass poor eye contact, repetitive behaviours, and sensory sensitivities, among others.

Level One ASD, previously known as Asperger's Syndrome, often involves difficulties in social interaction, repetitive behaviours, restricted interests, motor coordination issues, and challenges in aspects of communication like interpreting sarcasm or body language.

Available Support.

While our efforts to actively support neurodiversity are still evolving, prioritising the needs of our existing team members remains paramount. We encourage open communication and stand ready to provide personalised support tailored to individual requirements. Such support may vary widely and could encompass various forms of assistance.

Support available.

As our efforts to actively support neurodiversity are in their infancy, it's important that we first prioritise actively trying to serve the needs of our current team. We welcome you to reach out to us, and we'll do our best to support you. Support will look different for each person, but it could include things like:

If you can't take time off, make use of our flexible Working hours and location policy. Sometimes, you might just need a little extra time for yourself during the day.

We provide mental health support with Pulso and Headspace. If you're struggling mentally, whether it's health-related or not, please take advantage of the support available. You can read our Mental health support page to see what other options are available, as well as the Help via Pulso page.

Make use of being able to work from home when it works for you. We don't expect you to continuously come to the office when you're feeling rough. Speak to the People and Operations team if there's something that you'd like to purchase to make your home office more comfortable.

Let's talk about it. We know this is sometimes easier said than done, but talking to your manager or the People and Operations team can help us support you better. While we do our best to check in and recognise signs that someone might be struggling, these conditions are invisible, and it can be tricky to detect when someone is suffering.

Making adjustments. We want to help you as much as possible, and sometimes, this might be making simple changes to your role or your working environment to make you more comfortable while at work. Speak to your manager. They will listen and learn more about your needs and work together with you to get you all of the support necessary.

Changes can be as small as shifting your typical working hours (to allow for sufficient breaks or working more from home) or spending additional time with your manager to help you organise your work better. There can also be bigger changes, like moving to a different project.

Please speak to the People and Operations team about your needs and how we could support you better.